In the context of children's literature, a draft refers to the preliminary version of a story or manuscript written by an author. It serves as the foundation for the storytelling process and allows writers to organize their ideas, develop characters, and structure the plot. Drafts are crucial for refining the narrative, as they undergo multiple revisions based on feedback from editors or beta readers. This iterative process is essential in crafting a polished final manuscript that captures the imagination of young readers.